Adv. Shameemah Salie, Al Jama-ah Mayoral Candidate for the City of Cape Town, moved from marching in Cape Town to Kuils River, where she joined community members in raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV).
As a former State Advocate with experience in sexual offences matters, Adv. Salie understands the devastating impact of these crimes on victims, families and communities. Her experience in the justice system reinforces the importance of a competent, responsive and accessible justice system — one in which SAPS takes reports seriously, investigations are conducted effectively, survivors are treated with dignity, and our courts function efficiently to ensure that justice is pursued.
GBV is not just a statistic. It is happening in our homes, in our neighbourhoods and behind closed doors.
As we march through our streets, we must ask ourselves: how many homes do we pass where someone is living in fear, experiencing abuse or suffering in silence?
How many victims are crying out for help but feel unable to speak? How many people know what is happening behind closed doors but remain silent?
Raising awareness cannot be limited to commemorative days or public marches. We must raise our voices daily, challenge abusive behaviour, support survivors and build communities where victims know they will be heard and protected.
The fight against GBV requires more than condemnation. It requires prevention, accessible support services, effective policing, competent prosecutors, functioning courts and accountability at every level.
Adv. Salie joined Elvaresia Cloete, Al Jama-ah Ward 11 candidate, who forms part of an amazing organization Love They Neighbourhood as they engaged with residents and supported the call for safer communities.
A heartfelt thank you to the community for the warm welcome and kind words of appreciation. Your encouragement strengthens our commitment to serving humanity and standing with those whose voices are too often unheard.
We cannot look away. We cannot remain silent. And we cannot allow victims to fight for justice alone.
Let us continue to speak out, stand together and work towards a society where every person can live free from violence and fear.
Humanity. Accountability. Integrity. Service.
